The information provided here is meant to give you a general idea about each of the medications listed below. Only the most general side effects are included. As such, ask your doctor if you need to take any special precautions. Use each of these medications as recommended by your doctor. Make sure to follow the instructions provided. If you have further questions about benefits, usage, or side effects, contact your doctor.

Numerous medications may be prescribed to treat COPD. These medications may be taken by mouth or inhaled into the lungs. Some work by opening the airways. Others are designed to reduce inflammation, or eliminate infections.
The list below is a sample of some of these medications. Doctors may often choose drugs closely related to those listed. They may also choose combinations of drugs.

Prescription Medications

Bronchodilators

Corticosteroids

Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitors

Oxygen therapy

Antibiotics

Bronchodilators

Short-acting inhaled bronchodilators include:

Beta2-agonists

Albuterol

Terbutaline

Fenoterol

Anticholinergics

Ipatropium

Oxitropium

Long-acting inhaled bronchodilators include:

Beta2-agonists

Salmeterol

Formoterol

Arformoterol

Indacaterol

Olodaterol

Anticholinergics

Tiotropium

Aclidinium

Umeclidinium

Glycopyrronium

These drugs work by relaxing the smooth muscles of the respiratory tract. This allows the bronchial passages to open, which makes breathing easier.

Corticosteroids reduce inflammation in the airway walls. They are frequently used if airway obstruction cannot be kept under control with bronchodilators. Corticosteroids are usually provided in an inhaled form. This allows them to work directly on inflamed lung tissue. Few serious side effects are associated with their use if inhaled.

Systemic corticosteroids, taken by mouth or by IV, may also be used to treat sudden worsening of COPD. However, long-term use in COPD is not usually recommended.

Phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) Inhibitors

Common names include:

Roflumilast

PDE4 inhibitors reduce lung inflammation by blocking the effects of specific inflammatory substances in the body. It also makes mucus easier to clear from the lungs and reduces the number of COPD exacerbations. It is generally used in people who have severe COPD. PDE4 inhibitors are taken by mouth once a day.

Side effects that affect your mental health may include new or worsening depression or anxiety. NOTE: These drugs may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions. If you have these feelings, call for emergency medical services right away.

Oxygen Therapy

Supplemental oxygen may be given in the hospital or as home oxygen therapy. There are several of oxygen delivery. A nasal cannula is a two-pronged device inserted in the nostrils. It is connected to a tube carrying the oxygen. The tube can rest on the ears, or be attached to the frame of eyeglasses. People who need a high flow of oxygen may use a mask.

Oxygen therapy raises low blood oxygen levels. This enhances your ability to tolerate exercise, and improves mental function. It also improves heart function and helps to prevent some of the heart complications of COPD. You may require oxygen only during waking hours, or you may need it at all times throughout the day. Make sure that you understand how many hours a day you should be using oxygen. It is important to follow the prescription closely.

If you are using supplemental oxygen, it is extremely important that you do not smoke cigarettes. You should also avoid all other sources of fire or flame, such as candles or gas stoves. These could produce an explosive reaction. You should also avoid drinking alcohol or sedatives, since these can slow your breathing rate.

While on supplemental oxygen therapy, contact your doctor if:

You develop a headache, blue lips, confusion, or agitation

Your breathing becomes very shallow

You are still very tired following slight exertion

Antibiotics

Tetracycline

Doxycycline

Ampicillin

Amoxicillin

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole

Clarithromycin

Azithromycin

Erythromycin

Cephalosporins

Quinolones

Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections that could further limit breathing. They are frequently prescribed at the first sign of a respiratory infection, such as increased production of green or yellow sputum or fever. Usually, they are taken for 3-7 days. Your doctor may advise you to take them for a longer period to prevent flare-ups. Some are taken with food or on an empty stomach. It is usually best to avoid alcohol while taking antibiotics.

Some of the more likely side effects include:

Diarrhea

Abdominal pain

Sore mouth or tongue

Vaginal itching due to growth of fungus or yeast

Increased sensitivity to sunlight with tetracycline

Rash

Special Considerations

Talk to your doctor before using any over-the-counter medications if you have COPD.

If you are taking medications, follow these general guidelines:

Take the medication as directed. Do not change the amount or the schedule.

Ask what side effects could occur. Report them to your doctor.

Talk to your doctor before you stop taking any prescription medication.

Do not share your prescription medication.

Medications can be dangerous when mixed. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking more than one medication, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

Plan ahead for refills as needed.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Contact your doctor if you:

Have serious side effects, such as increased shortness of breath or signs of an allergic reaction, including swelling of the face, lips, or eyelids

Have prolonged nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Develop white spots in your mouth

Develop vaginal itching

Have severe or prolonged muscle cramps or heart palpitations

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.